What kind of paint do you use for trim and doors?

When it comes to painting the trim and doors in your home, having the right type of paint is crucial for getting a durable and attractive finish. The trim includes baseboards, window frames, door frames, crown molding, chair rails, and any other decorative woodwork. Doors are also almost always painted the same color as the trim for a cohesive look. So what kind of paint works best for both trim and doors? There are a few important factors to consider when selecting trim and door paint.

Oil-Based vs. Latex Paint

The first decision to make is whether to use an oil-based or latex (water-based) paint. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages:

  • Oil-based paints provide a hard, durable finish that holds up well to frequent use and cleaning. The oils allow the paint to flex as wood trim expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. Oil paint adheres very well to previously painted surfaces without requiring extensive prep. However, oil paints take longer to dry, have a strong odor, and require mineral spirits for brush cleaning and thinning.
  • Latex paints have low odor, clean up easily with soap and water, and dry faster than oils. However, latex paint is not quite as hard and durable as oil, particularly for a door that gets used frequently. Latex requires more careful surface prep and priming to adhere well.

For trim, either oil or latex paints can work well. For doors, an oil-based paint usually provides the toughest and most protective finish.

Sheen Level

Another key choice is the sheen level. This refers to how glossy or matte the dried paint appears. For interior trim and doors, there are three sheen options:

  • Flat/Matte – Completely non-reflective. Too dull for trim or doors except in special circumstances.
  • Eggshell – Low sheen, velvety appearance. Shows some dirt, scuffs, etc. Not ideal for high traffic areas.
  • Satin – Medium sheen, can range from eggshell-like to almost semi-gloss. Most popular choice for trim as it is easy to clean but not overly shiny.
  • Semi-Gloss – High sheen. Very durable and scrubbable. Can be too shiny for some people’s taste on trim, but often used on doors.
  • Gloss – Very shiny, with a bright reflective finish. Typically too shiny for interior use other than high-moisture areas.

Satin is usually the best all-around sheen for interior trim, providing some durability without being too shiny. For doors, many people prefer semi-gloss for its harder finish and stain resistance.

Primer vs. Paint-and-Primer

Most paint needs a coat of primer underneath for optimal adhesion and coverage. However, there are now many quality “paint-and-primer” products available that include both paint and primer together so only one coat is needed. While somewhat more expensive than separate primer and paint, this can save time and labor. Paint-and-primer combos work especially well for new or previously painted wood. However, for dramatic color changes, going from stained wood to painted, or over troublesome existing paint, a separate primer is still best.

Paint Brand and Quality

When choosing a brand of paint, you generally get what you pay for in terms of coverage, durability, and ease of application. While inexpensive paints are available, higher quality mid-range and premium paints are often worth the extra cost in terms of longevity and appearance. Some top quality paint brands to consider for interior trim and doors include:

  • Benjamin Moore
  • Sherwin-Williams
  • Behr
  • PPG Pittsburgh Paints
  • Valspar

Ask your local paint store associates for recommendations on quality paint lines and specific products best for trim and door applications.

Color Choices

When selecting a color for trim and doors, you’ll want to consider the style of your home and the colors used in the adjacent walls. Some options to consider:

  • Bright classic whites like White Dove or Swiss Coffee are versatile and brighten up a room.
  • Off-whites like Alabaster, Extra White or Oxford White provide a softer, warmer white.
  • Greys like Revere Pewter, Edgecomb Gray or Eider White work with many color schemes.
  • Deep colors like black or navy can look sharp on trim when done right.
  • For a unique look, paint doors a complementary color to the walls rather than matching the trim.

Always test paint samples on the actual trim or door before fully committing. Colors look different on wood than on a paint chip.

Preparation

Proper prep is crucial for trim and door paint to look its best and last a long time. Here are some key steps:

  • Remove hardware, outlet covers, switch plates and other items prior to painting. Fill any old holes or imperfections with wood filler and sand smooth.
  • Thoroughly clean all surfaces with TSP substitute cleaner to remove any grease, oils or wax.
  • Sand to dull any existing glossy paint for better adhesion. Use 120-150 grit sandpaper.
  • Remove all sanding dust with a vacuum and tack cloth. Wipe any oil residue off with a solvent like mineral spirits.
  • Apply primer to bare wood surfaces or special problem areas. Allow to fully dry.

Taking these steps helps ensure the new paint bonds tightly for a smooth, lasting finish.

Brushes vs. Rollers vs. Sprayers

You can apply trim and door paint using brushes, paint rollers, paint sprayers, or a combination:

  • Brushes – Best for cutting-in corners and edges with precision. Use high quality angled sash brushes.
  • Rollers – Faster than brushes on large flat trim areas. Use short-nap microfiber or foam rollers.
  • Paint Sprayers – Airless sprayers allow the fastest application overall, but have a learning curve and require masking off other surfaces.

Most people find a combination of careful brushwork with a small roller works best for trim. Doors can be rolled or sprayed effectively. Proper edging with a brush is still needed.

Application Tips

Follow these tips as you apply trim and door paint:

  • Keep a wet edge and avoid stopping mid-way through trim pieces to prevent lap marks.
  • Maintain a consistent distance and angle between surface and brush.
  • Use an extension pole for hard-to-reach areas.
  • Apply in direction of wood grain for smoothest finish.
  • Use drop cloths and masking tape for neatness.
  • Allow proper drying time between coats.
  • Sand lightly between coats to remove any dust nibs or imperfections.
  • Apply at least 2-3 coats for best coverage and durability.

Taking your time with proper application techniques will pay off in the end result.

Maintenance

To keep your painted trim and doors looking fresh, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Allow paint to cure fully for at least 2 weeks before cleaning or applying tape.
  • Use painter’s tape instead of masking tape to avoid pulling up fresh paint.
  • Clean painted surfaces with mild soap and water using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or excessively scrubbing.
  • Touch up any nicks or damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
  • Consider applying a fresh coat of paint every 3-5 years in high traffic areas.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of paint and applying it properly makes all the difference in achieving a beautiful, lasting finish on interior trim and doors. Quality oil or latex paint that matches the sheen and color of your decor, combined with thorough surface preparation and application techniques, will provide a durable, scrubbable surface with great visual appeal. Put in the work upfront to do it right, and you’ll have trim and doors that look freshly painted for years before needing a refresh.